Hammers' Arsenal test

West Ham Ladies are looking forward to the ultimate test after being drawn to face FA Women's Cup holders Arsenal in the Fifth Round of this year's competition.

The Hammers progressed to the next stage after a fine 7-0 win at home to Colchester United on Sunday, and Club Secretary John Greenacre has revealed that the players are looking forward to playing against a team of Arsenal's standard at the end of the month.

"It will be a very good test for our youngsters to see how far we've come this season to play against a club of Arsenal's calibre," he said.

However, the two sides are also due to meet in the London FA Women's Cup quarter-finals at Harlow Town FC, the Hammers' home ground, a week before their trip to Borehamwood, where it will be Arsenal's turn to host.

In their league battles, West Ham are currently mid-table in the Premier League Southern division - one league below their cup rivals, but still remain confident.

"We had a lot of players leave us last season, but we've got a good team together now. We just need maybe two more wins to secure our place in the league [and avoid relegation]," added Greenacre.

"We've had a lot of our younger players slowly coming through to the senior squad, and they are blending in well. Our Under-16 squad is very strong.

"It's a great draw really. There are no easy games at this stage, but we will do our best."